Priyanka Chopra is set to return to Indian cinema after nearly seven years. Her upcoming film, Varanasi, is directed by the renowned filmmaker SS Rajamouli. In an interview, Priyanka revealed, she made one request before signing the film.
Actress Priyanka Chopra is set to return to Indian cinema after nearly seven years. Her next film is titled Varanasi, and it’s being directed by the renowned filmmaker SS Rajamouli. In an interview, Priyanka revealed that when Rajamouli offered her the film, she had only one condition before saying yes, she wanted the opportunity to dance in the film. This was confirmed by actor Mahesh Babu, who said that the dance number is going to be sensational.
What was Priyanka Chopra’s request before signing Varanasi?
In an interview with CinemaBlend, Priyanka revealed that she had not appeared in any Indian film for the past six years. When Rajamouli called her and described her character, Priyanka jokingly said that she had only one request — “Will you let me dance?” Priyanka said that she hadn’t had the chance to dance for a long time, so she was very excited about it. However, she later realized that making this demand might have been a bit much, as there’s a lot of dancing in the film. In her words, “So, I haven’t done an Indian film in like six years. So when she called me, and he was like, ‘Oh, you know, this female character’s really cool and you have to do it,’ and whatever, I was like, ‘I have one request, will you make me dance? Please, because I haven’t danced for so long.”
Priyanka laughingly said that Mahesh Babu also had to work very hard because of this dance. She said that Mahesh jokingly said that all of this was happening because of Priyanka and now he also had to dance. She said, “Whoa, I should not have asked, because we be dancing. Oh my gosh, there’s a lot. And poor Mahesh was like, ‘It’s because of you. Because of you, I have to do it too.’”
Mahesh Babu’s reaction to Priyanka Chopra’s dancing request
Mahesh Babu, on the other hand, said that one song from the film has already been shot and it’s so fantastic that everyone keeps humming it even after the shooting. He said, “It’s sensational. And, I think one song we’ve already shot for it, and it just keeps playing in our minds. And [Priyanka] keeps singing it all the time. And, that song was because she wanted to dance and… And, he made her dance.”
All about Varanasi
Varanasi is directed by SS Rajamouli, who has previously directed blockbuster films like RRR. This film is being hailed as Priyanka Chopra’s grand return to Indian cinema, in which she will be seen in an action-packed role as Mandakini. Mahesh Babu plays the lead role, while Prithviraj Sukumaran portrays the villain. According to the teaser, the film’s story is based on time travel and action-adventure.
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SS Rajamouli’s fascination for Indian epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata is known. The director too on many occasions earlier expressed interest to make a film on any one of the two classics. And at the title reveal event of his upcoming film Varanasi, Rajamouli shared an interesting experience.
Mahesh Babu as Lord Rama
Rajamouli shared that he wasn’t sure whether Mahesh Babu looks apt for the role of Lord Rama. Instead, he believes that the superstar has more traits that suit Lord Krishna. But before commencing Varanasi film shooting, he did a test shoot with Mahesh for the role of Rama. “Even when I started this film (Varanasi), I never thought that I’d touch a chapter related to Ramayana,” the director shares, adding that as he kept developing the story he felt like he was cloud nine. He said, “The first day when I was doing a photo shoot session with Mahesh Babu as Lord Rama, I had goosebumps.” The director further revealed that he had kept Mahesh’s Lord Rama photo as his mobile wallpaper. He concluded, “But later I deleted it because someone may see it”.
“Luck to have shot a Ramayana episode”
Rajamouli further shares that working for the film Varanasi has been a liberating experience. The taskmaster recalls shooting for an intense action episode that lasts approximately around 30 minutes. The action episode was shot for 60 days and the unit completed it recently. Rajamouli said, “Shooting for the episode every day was a challenge. There are many sub episodes as part of the main episode, and every sub episode needs to be interesting, engaging and creative. Thankfully, it came nicely. And that sequence will be one of my memorable episodes not only in my career but also in Mahesh’s career.” Elaborating on Mahesh’s screen presence in that episode, the director said, “He looks handsome yet furious; generous yet enraged. Mahesh showed all the navarasas as Lord Rama. I am so lucky to have shot this episode.”
HYDERABAD, India (AP) — Filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, the blockbuster movie director behind global hits like “RRR” and “Baahubali” that redefined Indian cinema’s scale and caught Hollywood’s attention, has unveiled his most ambitious film yet.
Known for blending mythic storytelling with grand action and imaginative choreography, Rajamouli announced his latest film — and its title — at an event Saturday in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad, where thousands of his cheering fans thronged to catch a first glimpse.
Fans of Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu arrive to watch unveiling of first look of film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Fans of Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu arrive to watch unveiling of first look of film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
While details about the plot of the film “Varanasi” — previously code-named “Globe Trotter” — remain under wraps, the nearly four-minute video showed a visually rich time-travel adventure that draws parts of its storyline from Hindu mythology. The film borrows its title from the Indian city considered Hinduism’s spiritual heart.
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Rajamouli said the film will be projected in cinemas in IMAX format and is expected to release in 2027.
“Here you go… VARANASI to the WORLD…” Rajamouli wrote on X.
At the event, he alluded that one of the film’s sequences draws from “an important episode” from the Ramayana, a Hindu religious epic based on Lord Rama’s life.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mahesh Babu, filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli and Prithviraj Sukumaran pose for photograph after unveiling of first look of film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Mahesh Babu, filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli and Prithviraj Sukumaran pose for photograph after unveiling of first look of film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Priyanka Chopra Jonas addresses fans. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Priyanka Chopra Jonas addresses fans. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Priyanka Chopra Jonas before the unveiling of the first look. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Priyanka Chopra Jonas before the unveiling of the first look. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
For “Varanasi,” Rajamouli has assembled a star-studded cast, headlined by Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran. Having attained fame as a Bollywood superstar, Chopra Jonas returns to Indian cinema with this film after several Hollywood projects. A film poster shows her as the character Mandakini, in a mustard sari with a pistol in hand as she balances on the edge of a cliff.
“Varanasi” is Babu’s first collaboration with Rajamouli. The first look shows him as a fierce warrior covered in blood and riding a white bull with a trident in hand. Babu indeed made his entry onstage Saturday atop a mechanical white bull.
“It is a once-in-a-lifetime project,” Babu said after unveiling the teaser in Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City, the throbbing heart of Telugu cinema, also known as Tollywood. “I will make everyone proud. The whole of India will be proud of us.”
Thousands of frenzied fans watched the film’s first glimpse on a mammoth 110-by-130-foot (33.5-by-39.5-meter) screen flanked by replicas of Varanasi city. A display of colorful lights and dazzling fireworks lit up the venue as crowds danced to the foot-tapping tunes of Telugu music — a mix of new songs and classics — turning the event into a vibrant festival.
Fans of Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu arrive to watch unveiling of first look of film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Fans of Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu arrive to watch unveiling of first look of film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu addresses his fans after unveiling the first look of the film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu addresses his fans after unveiling the first look of the film “Varanasi” in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli announces his latest film “Varanasi” at an event in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
Filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli announces his latest film “Varanasi” at an event in Hyderabad, India, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)
The Telugu-language film industry has carved out its own identity separate from Hindi-language Bollywood with its high-octane and sometimes logic-defying action, mythic storylines and grand visual style. And much of Tollywood’s recent success — critical and box office — has been credited to Rajamouli, whose larger-than-life heroes and ambitious filmmaking with imaginative visual effects have catapulted the film industry onto the global stage.
Rajamouli became an international name after “RRR,” or “Rise, Roar, Revolt,” his 2022 three-hour, Telugu-language epic set in British India. The sprawling anti-colonial tale became one of India’s biggest hits, turned into a global streaming phenomenon, and won an Oscar for best original song. His two-part “Baahubali” series, released in 2015 and 2017, broke box-office records in India and introduced Western audiences to the visual grandeur of Telugu cinema. A reedited version combining the two parts, “Baahubali: The Epic,” released in cinemas worldwide just last month.
Many Tollywood film fans traveled from faraway towns and villages to watch Babu, who commands a near-godlike following among them.
“It’s not actually Tollywood now, it’s global now,” said Manideep Rayudu, a fan. “Our superstar Mahesh Babu is not a regional star anymore. He is a global star.”
The wait is finally over. SS Rajamouli has officially revealed the title of his next big-screen adventure starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra, and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film, which had been referred to as GlobeTrotter during production, is now confirmed to be titled Varanasi. The announcement was made during a grand celebration held at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, where thousands of fans gathered to witness the moment live.
Just hours before the event, Rajamouli shared a message hinting at a major reveal. He wrote, “The title of the film will be revealed along with a visual to the world… Once it airs on the big screen at the #GlobeTrotter event, we will make it live online.” This immediately sparked excitement among fans who were eager to see what the filmmaker had planned.
The title of the film will be revealed along with a visual to the world…
Once it airs on the big screen at the #GlobeTrotter event, we will make it live online…. 🤗🤗🤗
During the event, Rajamouli introduced Mahesh Babu’s character, Rudhra, through an epic poster that received roaring applause. The filmmaker had already surprised fans earlier with the character posters of Priyanka Chopra and Prithviraj Sukumaran, but Mahesh Babu’s reveal marked the biggest highlight of the evening.
The title visual takes viewers across different global landscapes before shifting dramatically to the Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi. It is here that Mahesh Babu’s Rudhra makes his first appearance, riding a white bull and holding a massive trishul, setting the tone for the film’s theme and scale.
Have a look at this:
The visual teaser strongly hints that the story will not only span multiple countries but also move across different timelines, adding a mythic layer to the action narrative. The event also included a musical showcase to give fans an early taste of the film’s soundtrack. With the energy in the venue running high, Rajamouli’s vision for Varanasi seems poised to deliver a grand cinematic experience.
Mahesh Babu-starrer SSMB29 has been creating quite a buzz ever since it was announced. Earlier, the makers had revealed that the official title update would arrive in November, and now the superstar himself has hinted at the announcement through a quirky conversation with director SS Rajamouli, confirming the involvement of Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prithviraj Sukumaran.
Mahesh Babu hints at SSMB29 update
Taking to his social media handle, Mahesh Babu asked SS Rajamouli, “It’s November already.” In response, the filmmaker playfully replied, “Yess… ye cinemaalaki review iddaam anukuntunnaavu ee month?” (Yes… which movie are you planning to review this month?).
The conversation continued with Mahesh responding, “Your ‘forever in making’ Mahabharatha, Sir… First things first, you promised us something in November. Please keep up your word.”
Rajamouli replied that November had only just begun and added that they would reveal the details one by one.
Finally, Mahesh Babu quipped, “How slow, sir…? Shall we start in 2030? Fyi, our Desi girl has been posting every street of Hyderabad on her Insta stories since January,” tagging Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
Soon enough, Priyanka Chopra joined the tweet chain and added, “Helloooo!! Hero!!! You want me to leak all the stories you share with me on set? Mind lo fix aithe blind ga esestha..” (Once I make up my mind, I’ll do it blindly.)
Continuing the fun banter, SS Rajamouli asked the Khaleja actor why he revealed Priyanka, adding that he had ruined the surprise.
Soon after, Mahesh also confirmed Prithviraj Sukumaran’s involvement and said, “Surprise aaa? You mean to say Prithviraj is also a surprise?”
See the tweets here:
Prithviraj then joined the response chain and revealed, “Rajamouli sir, I’m running out of alibis for these Hyderabad ‘vacations.’ If I keep this up any longer, my family will start doubting me.”
Later, Mahesh called for a truce with the RRR director and asked him to put out an update on November 2, 2025, and just call it a surprise for namesake.
Adding how his sarcasm had reached quite a level, Rajamouli said, “Okay, deal. But penalty for excess sarcasm: I’ve decided to delay the release of your first look.”
Finally, Prithviraj explained how the director loves his villains the most. However, the Guntur Kaaram actor responded that Rajamouli saves the best for last.
From the conversation, it seems that the upcoming update will be the official character reveal of the Salaar actor as the main antagonist in SSMB29.
Mahesh Babu is currently working on his upcoming movie, tentatively titled SSMB29. Due to his shooting schedule, the actor had to miss out on celebrating his son, Gautam Ghattamaneni’s 19th birthday, but he sent his wishes through social media.
Mahesh Babu celebrates son Gautam Ghattamaneni’s 19th birthday
Sharing a throwback picture and heartfelt wishes via Instagram, Mahesh Babu wrote, “Happy 19 my son!! Each year you amaze me a little more… Missing your birthday this year, the only one I have ever missed… my love is with you every step of the way…. Always your biggest cheerleader in whatever you do… keep shining and keep growing…”
See the post here:
For those unaware, Gautam Ghattamaneni is the firstborn of superstar Mahesh Babu and former actress Namrata Shirodkar. The popular star kid is currently studying acting and has once appeared in a minor role in his father’s film, 1: Nenokkadine.
Recently, Mahesh Babu also missed out on celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi with his family. The actor is reportedly shooting for SSMB29 in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, where he is filming some intense action sequences.
His wife, Namrata, shared a festive picture on social media and expressed how much she missed the superstar during the celebrations.
She penned, “Bappa is home and we are all happy. Wishing love, peace and prosperity to all! Mahesh Babu, missing you a whole lot. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi to all.”
More details about SSMB29
SSMB29 is said to be a globe-trotting jungle adventure, with Mahesh Babu playing a rugged explorer likely inspired by Indiana Jones and African folklore.
As part of Mahesh Babu’s 50th birthday celebrations, the makers shared that the official reveal will take place in November 2025. They have promised that it will be a ‘Never-Before-Seen’ unveiling.
Ongoing buzz on the internet suggests that renowned filmmaker James Cameron might officially announce the movie during his promotions for Avatar 3: Ash and Fire. However, this has yet to be confirmed by the makers.
In addition to Mahesh Babu, the highly anticipated film features Priyanka Chopra Jonas as the co-lead. Moreover, actors like Prithviraj Sukumaran and R Madhavan are also expected to play key roles.
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant‘s wedding pictures and videos are all over the internet and people are going gaga over the same. The star-studded wedding was graced by popular Bollywood celebs, politicians, and international icons. Shah Rukh Khan came to the party with his wife Gauri Khan. A video clip of the couple having a conversation during Anant and Radhika’s pheras will melt your heart. In the clip, Shah Rukh Khan was seen talking to Gauri, while other guests were watching the pheras of the bride and groom. Also Read – Anant Ambani, Radhika Merchant Mangal Utsav ceremony: Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan to not attend due to THIS reason?
While Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt clearly had fun at the wedding. A short video of them vibing along to the music being played at the wedding is winning hearts. Ranbir had his eyes closed while Alia was seen smiling. Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson was seen enjoying the music in the video with his son, Theodore whom he lifted on his shoulders.
Fans filled the comments section as one user wrote, ‘Lol this is cute’, while another said, ‘Ha Ha.. Ranbir-Alia grooving while Boris Johnson chilling in the background.. This is the second wildest snippet from the ambani wedding besides Mamata Banerjee and Kim K in one frame’.
Shah Rukh-Gauri, Ranbir Kapoor-Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh-Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra-Nick Jonas, Sachin Tendulkar, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Ananya Panday, Shanaya Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor, Manushi Chhillar, Rajinikanth, Anil Kapoor and more celebs attended the wedding.
Here’s a video from Anant Ambani, Radhika Merchant wedding
Anant and Radhika tied the knot on July 12. The Shubh Vivaah was followed by Shubh Aashirwad on July 13 and on July 14 the couple had a Mangal Utsav, or wedding reception.
Superstar Mahesh Babu was recently seen in the Trivikram Srinivas directorial film Guntur Kaaram which is currently running in theaters despite receiving mixed-to-negative reviews from critics.
In a recent interview with Mahesh Babu and Sreeleela, the actor revealed that he didn’t use actual beedis or cigarettes while filming for Guntur Kaaram and instead was provided with an Ayurvedic beedi that was made out of clove leaves.
Mahesh Babu reveals the use of Ayurvedic beedi in Guntur Kaaram
In the interview, Mahesh Babu was asked about the beedi he used in the film where the actor said that he doesn’t smoke himself and doesn’t encourage smoking also. He revealed that he was initially given a real beedi which he took and immediately gave him a migraine and when confided with Trivikram over it.
After some thinking, they decided to use Ayurvedic beedis which he immediately loved and that beedi gave him a mint flavor while intaking and did not contain any kind of tobacco in them.
More about Guntur Kaaram
Coming to Guntur Kaaram, the makers had earlier decided to file a cyber complaint against the alleged use of fake bots in degrading their film on BookMyShow which affects their reputation, and considers it to be the act of some anti-film groups targeting them.
Moreover, the team of Guntur Kaaram including the two actresses Sreeleela and Meenakshii Chaudhary were recently spotted at Mahesh Babu’s residence celebrating the success of the film.
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Guntur Kaaram written and directed by Trivikram Srinivas is the director’s third collaboration with Mahesh Babu since their films like Athadu and Khaleja. The film features the story of a brash and well-known figure in Guntur called Veera Venkata Ramana (Mahesh Babu) who has a strained relationship with his mother, who abandoned him when he was young.
The remorse of the protagonist not understanding why his mother left him makes him turn out to be such a brash person, making it the crux of the story. The film later goes on to reveal the reasons behind her desertion and how the son and mother fix their relationship, despite being faced with numerous hurdles.
The film features an ensemble cast of actors including Ramya Krishnan, Jayaram, Prakash Raj, Rao Ramesh, Vennela Kishore and many more in key roles.
South sensation Mahesh Babu also referred as Prince by his ardent fans were one of the actors who was present at the prerelease promotional event of the Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna starrer Animal. At the event, Mahesh Babu appreciated Animal makers and the entire cast for their efforts and wished success for the film. However, since Animal has released, the actor who shares a great bond with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga has maintained a safe distance from Animal. Why. Find out. BollywoodLife is now on WhatsApp. Click here to join for the latest Entertainment NewsAlso Read – KGF star Yash to Allu Arjun, know the education qualifications of wives of South Indian superstars
The Sarileru Neekevvaru actor has decided not to comment on the recently released Animal. Although he has loved the film he will not appreciate or speak about the film publicly. This decision of Mahesh Babu is the result of the online trolling received by fellow actor Allu Arjun. The Pushpa star appreciated Animal on his social media calling it a ‘Classic ‘ This didn’t go down well with a section of social media users. Allu Arjun receive severe backlash as in how he can support a film which glorifies violence and misogynistic approach. The actor didn’t delete the tweet, but he did realize that talking about the Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna starrer publicly was a big mistake. Also Read – Pushpa 2 star Allu Arjun to Mahesh Babu: South Indian celebs and their unseen pictures with family
Trisha Krishnan and other south stars receives backlash for supporting Animal
Not only Allu Arjun but renowned actress Trisha Krishnan also faced the wrath of people when she appreciated Animal on her respective social media handle. The trolling was to such an extent that eventually she has to delete the tweet. Following what happened with Trisha and Allu Arjun, Mahesh Babu and many other south stars have decided to keep mum on ‘Animal’. Talking about Bollywood, no big names have appreciated Animal on public platform as they very well know the consequences of it.
Animal roars at box office
While the Bobby Deol starrer has received flak, the audience however has given thumbs up to the film at box office. The movie which has broken many box office records have till now collected a whopping amount of 450 crore.
Ever since the release of RRR in March 2022, there has been ample of speculation on the shooting schedule of India’s biggest director, SS Rajamouli’s next fronted by Mahesh Babu. The film was initially slated to go on floors in 2023, however, the maverick filmmaker needed more time to finish his script and also get equipped with international technology for this African Jungle Adventure.
SSMB 29 screenplay is expected to be locked by December
While it’s still a work in progress on the pre-production front, Pinkvilla has exclusively learnt that SS Rajamouli and the team are looking to start shooting for SSMB 29 from April 2024. “SS Rajamouli and his father, KV Vijayendra Prasad, are presently busy giving finishing touches to the script of this African Jungle Adventure. The entire screenplay draft is expected to be locked by the end of this year,” revealed a source close to the development.
The source further added that a team is simultaneously working on the tech check for this jungle adventure. “After RRR scaling new heights, SS Rajamouli has become the global face of cinema. He is in talks with two global studios (Disney & Sony) to partner on this feature film with the idea of taking the content to the remotest corners of the world. While the storytelling pattern will stick to the Indian flavor, the visuals will be a result of some of the best of technology coming into play. The shoot will take place at real locations as also sets in India and abroad,” the source informed adding further that Mahesh will undergo extensive prep for this film.
Rajamouli to make a rooted jungle adventure with Mahesh Babu
While the world is that of a global jungle adventure, we previously reported that Mahesh Babu’s character will have traits of Lord Hanuman in the film. “Rajamouli films are deeply rooted in Indian Mythology and Epics, and the upcoming jungle adventure will be no different. He is a master of his craft and knows how to merge the Indian tales in a format that makes it a must-watch big-screen spectacle,” the source concluded.
The workshops for Mahesh on SS Rajamouli’s next begin early next year, right after the release of his Trivikram-directed Guntur Kaaram. There is also a chatter within the industry about a spin-off to charaters from Bahubali in the offing, but we have not got clarity on the same from credible sources. Stay tuned to Pinkvilla for more updates.
For a while now, there have been constant reports of people getting replaced and new artists getting signed to be a part of Guntur Kaaram. Some of these reports have turned out to be the truth, while others were mere rumors. Now, the latest reports are coming up that there is a new cinematographer on board for the Mahesh Babu starrer film.
Manoj Paramahamsa has reportedly replaced P S Vinod as the cinematographer of Guntur Kaaram. There has been no official confirmation regarding the news from either the film’s team or Vinod.
Manoj Paramahamsa is touted to have reportedly replaced P S Vinod as the cinematographer of Guntur Kaaram
It is certainly odd and unusual for a cinematographer to leave a film midway through the shoot. But reports are currently going around that this is exactly what has happened with Guntur Kaaram. Since the beginning of its shoot, the film has been in the news for one reason or another.
For the uninitiated, the film stars Mahesh Babu, Ramya Krishna, Brahmanandam, Sunil, Jayaram, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Sreeleela, and Jagapathi Babu. Guntur Kaaram has been directed by Trivikram Srinivas. S Radha Krishna has bankrolled the film under his production company, Haarika & Hassine Creations.
The constant replacements have been a concern for the fans of Mahesh Babu, who were eagerly anticipating his collaboration with Trivikram. For the unversed, P S Vinod has been an in-demand cinematographer for decades now. His first film was the Tamil film Rhythm, released in 2000.
The film was initially announced with Pooja Hegde as the female protagonist. But she was later removed from the project. The film would have marked the actress’s second collaboration with Mahesh Babu after Maharshi. Guntur Kaaram would also have been her third film with frequent collaborator Trivikram. The two had earlier worked together on the films Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava and Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo.
Guntur Kaaram is expected to release next year and has remained a heavily hyped film ever since its announcement. This is a film that has been highly anticipated by Mahesh Babu fans. Hopefully, the film will manage to get past the initial controversies surrounding it and emerge as a colossal success.
Rashmika Mandanna got clicked at Hyderabad airport, on Tuesday evening. Unlike her usual happy mood, the actress seemed to be in a rush as she didn’t make any eye contact or interact with the paparazzi. In fact, the actress covered her face with a mask and big sunglasses.
The Pushpa actress defined simplicity and comfort as the best fashion as she wore maroon trousers, paired up with a white tee. With a bag in her hands and white sneakers, she rounded off her travel look.
Check out Rashmika Mandanna’s airport video
Mahesh Babu’s wife Namrata and son Gautam at airport
Meanwhile, Mahesh Babu’s wife Namrata Shirodkar and his son Gautam were also clicked at the airport this morning. The former actress was busy talking on the phone as she arrived at the airport with her son. She kept her look very basic in flared jeans and a white shirt with matching sneakers. Gautam, who is called a reflection of his superstar dad, looked simple with a backpack as he walked with his mom Namrata.
Mahesh Babu and Namrata’s latest photos from Shriya Bhupal’s baby shower have taken the internet by fire. Namrata shared several photos from the event and wrote in the caption, “About last night! My first official party with our 11-year-old, and she had an absolute blast, much like her father. Just like the old times… Met all our friends who came out of the woodwork. Just like we did But whatta party!.”
Upcoming films
Meanwhile, Rashmika Mandanna is reprising her role as Srivalli in the second part of Allu Arjun starrer, Pushpa 2: The Rule. She also teamed up with Nithiin and Venky Kudumula for his upcoming film, tentatively titled VNRTrio. The actress also announced the female-centric film Rainbow with Dev Mohan.
Mahesh Babu has joined forces with director Trivikram Srinivas in an upcoming film titled Guntur Kaaram. The actor and director duo has earlier delivered blockbusters like Athadu and Khaleja. Pooja Hegde is the female lead and Sreeleela will also be seen playing a key character in the film. S Thaman is a music composer. Guntur Kaaram is scheduled to be released for Sankranthi 2024.
SS Rajamouli is a maestro of story telling, and he proved it with every film that also turns out to be a commercial hit. The greatest example is his last release, RRR, which became a direct hit globally by winning Golden Globes and Oscar awards and a special performance on the Academy stage. And now the filmmaker has visioned to make a film on the most popular mythological subject Mahabharata, yes, in an interview he reportedly said that making Mahabharata is his dream and he plans to make a 10 part film. Rajamouli, who stated making the films in Parts one and two with Baahubali, is planning to go beyond and make not one or two but a total of 10 parts of Mahabharata, unimaginable right? Also Read – Chatrapathi trailer: Sreenivas Bellamkonda and Nushrratt Bharuccha all set to win hearts in this SS Rajamouli remake
Rajamouli said this while speaking to his brother-in-law, Dr. AK Guruva Reddy, “If I get to the point of making the Mahabharata, it would take me a year just to read the versions of the Mahabharata that are available in the country. At present, I can only assume that it would be a 10-part film”. Calling it a long-held dream, Rajamouli added,” Every film I make, I feel that I’m learning something to ultimately make Mahabharata. So that’s my dream, and every step is towards that.” Also Read – Prabhas, Jr NTR, Nani and more: Top South actors who owe their successful film careers to SS Rajamouli
Now what is so special about making the Mahabharata, as we all know the story about it? Adding excitement to it, Rajamouli said,” The characters that I write for my Mahabharata will not be the same as you’ve seen or read before. I will tell the Mahabharata in my own way. “The Mahabharata (story) will be the same, but the characters will be enhanced, and the inter-relationships between the characters will be added”. Well, he lives up to the tag of being the Kaif visionary filmmaker. Also Read – Jr NTR grabs attention of James Gunn; the director wishes to introduce RRR star to his Guardians of the Galaxy universe
There is a strong buzz that he will cast Jr. NTR, Ram Charan, Deepika Padukone, and many more actors for this said film. Well, if this dream of Rajamouli comes true, it will be a spectacular visual treat for all the fans. Rajamouli Garu is right now working on a film with Mahesh Babu, and reportedly, he might have Alia Bhatt opposite him.
Mahesh Babu, the Telugu superstar is set to reunite with renowned filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas for the third time, for his much-awaited 28th outing in the Telugu film industry. The movie, which has been tentatively titled SSMB 28, is touted to be an out-and-out commercial entertainer and is currently in the final stages of its shooting. The Mahesh Babu starrer was originally supposed to hit the theatres in the Summer of 2022. However, the project was delayed for over a year due to various reasons.
SSMB 28 – Streaming rights
As per the latest updates, the post-theatrical streaming rights of SSMB 28 have been bagged by the OTT giant Netflix. The exciting update was announced by Netflix India through their official Twitter handle, on January 14, Saturday. “Penu thuphaanu thalonchaina choodaataniki memu ready. Meeru? #SSMB28 is coming on Netflix in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada as a post-theatrical release!” reads Netflix India’s post. If the reports are to be believed, the OTT giant has bagged the post-theatrical rights of Mahesh Babu and Trivikram’s film for a record prize.
From Star cast to trivia – Here are the 5 things to know about Mahesh Babu and Trivikram Srinivas’s ambitious project…
1. SSMB 28 star cast
The highly anticipated project marks Mahesh Babu and Trivikram Srinivas’s third collaboration, after the massive success of the 2005-released Athadu and 2010 film Khaleja. The much-awaited project features popular actress Pooja Hegde as the female lead. Thus, the untitled project marks Pooja’s reunion with the superstar, with whom she shared the screen in the 2019-released blockbuster Maharshi. Malayalam actress Samyuktha Menon is also said to be playing a key role in the much-awaited film.
2. The technical crew
Director Trivikram Srinivas himself has penned the story and screenplay for SSMB 28, which is touted to be a mass entertainer. Senior cinematographer PS Vinod is the director of photography. S Thaman has composed the songs and original score for the highly anticipated project. Navin Nooli handles the editing. Anbu-Arivu, the famous action choreographers who are best known for their exceptional work in the 2022-released blockbuster film Vikram, are handling the stunt choreography.
3. The original plans and unexpected delay
For the unversed, SSMB 28 was originally announced on May 1, 2021, on the special occasion of Labourers’ Day. The announcement of the project left the Mahesh Babu fans and Telugu cinema audiences who were eagerly waiting for the superstar’s reunion with director Trivikram Srinivas. The makers were initially planning to release the untitled project in the Summer of 2022. But SSMB 28 was delayed multiple times due to various issues.
If the rumours are to be believed, Mahesh Babu was unhappy with the initial draft of the film’s script and asked Trivikram Srinivas to rework on the same. The grapevine suggests that the superstar even refused to start shooting for the project until the final draft of the script and dialogues get ready. Later, he lost his elder brother Ramesh Babu, and both his parents, superstar Krishna and Indira Devi, in 2022. This also resulted in the film’s unexpected delay.
4. The shooting schedules
In December 2022, it was officially confirmed that Mahesh Babu started preparing for his role in SSMB 28. The Telugu superstar actor was clicked at a gym in Dubai, and the picture immediately went viral on social media. The reports suggest that Mahesh Babu will be appearing in a never-seen-before avatar in the film, and is said to be bulking up for his role.
5. The title and first look, and release date
The makers are reportedly planning to announce the official title and first look poster of Mahesh Babu and Trivikram Srinivas’s film on the special occasion of Makar Sankranti, on January 15, Sunday. The highly anticipated film is slated to hit the theatres on April 28, this year.
Mahesh Babu’s wife Namrata Shirodkar remembers late actor and her father in law Krishna and shares the superstar’s journey post on her Instagram with a long caption that reads, ” An evergreen star, man of many firsts, a true trendsetter… His insatiable love for cinema made him the Superstar that he was & will always be. Proud to have known him, to have called him my father-in-law, to have learnt many of life’s valuable lessons that I will forever carry with me. To celebrating him and his unparalleled legacy every day… Love you Mamayya garu “.
RRR star Ram Charan raises the temperature with his uber cool pic and his fans is calling him the most funky guy and we agree.
Kantara star Rishabh Shetty replaced from his Bachelor Party as he is extremely busy with the second installment of his film Kantara 2.
Let’s take a roundup of all the top updates from the South Film industry. A lot happened that made it to the headlines. First and foremost, the health update about superstar Krishna has stressed everyone. Mahesh Babu‘s father is said to be on a ventilator. Apart from this, as per the latest reports, Tollywood star Naga Shourya too was rushed to the hospital after he collapsed on the sets. SS Rajamouli gave out an important detail about the sequel of RRR 2 and more. Let’s take a look at all the top updates.
Superstar Krishna on the ventilator
As per the latest health bulletin shared by Continental Hospitals, superstar and Mahesh Babu‘s father Krishna has been put on a ventilator. He reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest and was rushed to the hospital. His health condition currently remains critical.
As per a latest report in Gulte.com, Tollywood actor Naga Shourya was rushed to a nearby hospital in Gachibowli after he fainted on the sets of his next film. Rigourous non-liquid diet is said to be the cause behind his dehyradation. The report suggests that he was put on drips. This comes before his big wedding taking place in the next few days.
SS Rajamouli shares update on RRR 2
As reported by Tollywood.net, RRR makers SS Rajamouli has dropped a major update over its sequel. The script of part 2 of the film that starred Jr NTR and Ram Charan in leading roles is being witten by SS Rajamouli’s father Vijayendra Prasad. However, the director is currently focusing on his next big release with Mahesh Babu.
Rashmika Mandanna recalls her childhood days
On Children’s Day, Pushpa actress Rashmika Mandanna penned a sweet note recalling her childhood days. She mentioned that Children’s Day used to a big thing in their school.
Hansika Motwani and Sohael Khaturiya sending wedding invitations
Hansika Motwani and Sohael Khaturiya who are all set to have a December have already started sending out invitations for the guests to save the date. The wedding invite is an elegant one that holds gifts for guests.
Check out Hansika Motwani and Sohael Khaturiya’s wedding invite below:
Yashoda box office report
Samantha Ruth Prabhu‘s movie Yashoda is doing well at the box office. Not just in India, the film has done tremendously well in international markets too. It is among the top grossers this week.
#Yashoda‘s Indomitable Will gets Unstoppable Love Abroad?
It’s among the Top Grossers in USA (This Week) with $445K Gross?
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